Church History Matters

They explore how Latter-day Saint scripture and leader statements interact with scientific ideas about evolution. They trace diverse historical views among church leaders and highlight official statements that leave mechanisms uncertain. They discuss reading scripture’s genre and urge avoiding literalist traps when science and faith intersect.

Join Jamie Jensen, a BYU biology professor who specializes in bridging faith and science, as she discusses how to reconcile evolution with spiritual belief. She explores common conflicts students face, emphasizing that science can actually deepen faith. Jensen shares personal insights on interpreting scripture in light of scientific understanding and addresses the philosophical differences between scientific and religious epistemologies. Through her journey, she emphasizes the importance of intellectual humility and the enriching effects of curiosity on both faith and science.

Discover how modern science can enhance our understanding of scripture without undermining faith. The hosts examine the importance of recognizing scripture's eternal truths versus science's natural explanations. They advocate for a balance that appreciates miracles while avoiding rigid literalism. Delving into Genesis, they reveal profound theological insights and emphasize the symbolic nature of creation stories. Engaging discussions on Noah's Flood and New Testament miracles further highlight the interplay between theology and science. Expect a thought-provoking take on belief and reason.

Explore the intricate relationship between scripture and science in this enlightening discussion. Delve into how scriptures, steeped in history and human experience, were never designed as scientific manuals. The hosts advocate for a thoughtful reading that embraces theology over literalism while highlighting harmony between empirical inquiry and spiritual truths. Discover how Genesis conveys profound meaning through poetry and symbolism rather than straightforward facts. Learn practical tools for interpreting scripture that honor its intent and avoid misinterpretation.

Casey and Scott dive into the intriguing relationship between science and religion, specifically through Latter-day Saint theology. They tackle the perceived conflict, contrasting figures like Richard Dawkins with more harmonious perspectives. Galileo's historical clash with the Catholic Church highlights past tensions. The hosts showcase how LDS leaders view science and faith as complementary. They discuss embracing all truth and the agnostic nature of science. Ultimately, they argue for the right tools: science for the how and religion for the why.

Holiday greetings kick off the discussion as Scott and Casey celebrate completing their year of studying the Doctrine and Covenants. They emphasize the importance of community scripture study and reflect on collaborative learning. Exciting plans for 2026 are revealed, including a deep-dive series format returning to tackle complex historical topics. The hosts announce a new series on science and religion, and encourage listeners to suggest future topics. They wrap up with well-wishes and a meaningful Christmas quote.

Scott and Casey delve into the significance of the Family Proclamation, exploring its historical context amid the 1990s cultural shifts. They discuss its origins tied to events like the UN Cairo conference and the Hawaii same-sex marriage litigation. A line-by-line breakdown reveals its teachings on divine marriage, gender roles, and the sanctity of life. The hosts tackle controversies around the proclamation's authorship and its canonical status while celebrating its impact on families today. They conclude with personal reflections on the blessings of family.

Explore the origins of the Articles of Faith, highlighting Joseph Smith's collaboration with early church leaders. Delve into the contention surrounding their role as a creed versus a missionary tool. Unpack key concepts like the Latter-day Saint view of the Fall and cooperative salvation. Discuss the significance of modern ecclesiastical offices, spiritual gifts, and the ongoing revelation. The conversation also touches on civic duties, religious freedom, and the legacy of these articles as foundational teachings for the faith.

Dive into the complex history surrounding Official Declaration 2 and its impact on race within the church. The hosts recall personal memories from 1978 and explore the early church's inclusion of Black members. They discuss Brigham Young's changing views on race, fears of interracial marriage, and the 1852 public ban announcement. The conversation touches on prophetic fallibility, the church's disavowal of past theories, and the implications of the 1978 revelation. It wraps up with a call to combat prejudice and promote inclusion among all members.

Scott and Casey dive deep into Official Declaration 1, tracing the history of plural marriage from its roots to the 1890 Manifesto that officially ended the practice. They explore legal pressures, Supreme Court decisions, and the role of women in advocating for change. The discussion highlights the complexities of church leadership decisions, the tension between revelations, and the impact on members. Listeners also learn how modern church policies reflect a commitment to monogamy, while addressing historical controversies with nuance.